Two energy suppliers, E.ON and Tru Energy, have been given the green light by Ofgem to proceed with involuntary installations of prepayment meters (PPMs).
This decision comes after the companies met the energy regulator’s stringent criteria for such installations.
The update to the list of authorised suppliers has been made available on Ofgem’s website, ensuring transparency for consumers regarding which suppliers are permitted to conduct forced PPM installations.
An Ofgem spokesperson said: “Protecting consumers is our number one priority. We’ve made clear that suppliers must exhaust all other options before considering forced installation of a PPM and consumers can help themselves by reaching out to their supplier as soon as possible if they think they won’t be able to pay their bill, so payment options can be discussed.
“Our rules on when and how a PPM can be installed are clear and we won’t hesitate to take action if suppliers act irresponsibly.
“We will continue to work closely with consumer groups and suppliers to make sure households understand their rights when it comes to PPMs and will regularly review our rules to make sure they are working to protect the most vulnerable.
“We would also strongly encourage consumers to make sure their personal details and circumstances are up to date with their supplier, so they can be taken into consideration if or when payment problems arise.”
